There are plenty of cycling brands that claim to be made by riders, for riders, but very few can claim active development from a current Tour de France-standard pro. Founded by Slovakian star Martin Velits, twin brother of Peter, Isadore might not be a well-known name yet, but its practical, pared down designs – backed by pro rider insight from both the brothers – make it one to take seriously.
Described by Velits as "my true vision of distinctive and high quality cycling clothing", Isadore has been growing its range since 2012 and is handmade in the brothers' native Slovakia. The focus is clearly on jerseys and upper body gear. Looks range from simple black and white, to bold reds and pastel shades, with various performance materials, modern wool and even an asymmetric zip – it's seriously stylish-looking stuff.
Climber's Jersey
The first Isadore kit to land in the BikeRadar office is the newest addition to the brand's range. Each colourway of the Climber's Jersey (€130 – about £92 / US$140 / AU$180) is styled on a particular mountain. Here we've got Mount Haleakala and the Col De La Bonette, while Mount Fuji is also an inspiration.
The jersey weighs 169g (size L) and uses soft Lycra sleeves and side panels with Isadore's unique merino bi-component material on the body and back – essentially traditional merino with an external synthetic layer (53 percent polyester / 44 percent merino wool / three percent lycra). The merino fibres wick fast and give a high SPF rating.
There are three rear pockets as well as an internal race radio holder and headphone buttonhole.
Cut close to the body with tight-fitting arms, the jersey is designed to help you down the other side of the mountain too.
Long Sleeve Jersey
Described as a versatile three-season jersey, Isadore's long sleeved option (€130 – about £92 / US$140 / AU$180) uses the same merino bi-component material as the Climber's Jersey. The merino wool fibres are used to keep you warm as well as being breathable and helping to control smells.
There's a full length zip for extra air and the reinforced rear pockets seen across the range. There's also a chest pocket and elbow patches.
Here we've got the Olive Green and Burnt Orange options. There's also a mysterious sounding Potent Purple version.
Merino Membrane Softshell Jacket
Isadore's Merino Membrane Softshell Jacket (€245 – approx £175 / US$265 / AU$345) has an almost casual look with a slim-fit cut. Merino wool lines the inside for moisture transfer and warmth, while a waterproof membrane – with a Durable Water Repellency treatment rated to 10,000mm – keeps the rain at bay. DuPont Teflon treated ThermoRoubaix side panels finish the construction.
It's designed to keep you comfortable in colder months when conditions vary from heavy sweating to freezing cold and is recommended for sub zero to 15-degrees Celsius temperatures depending on your choice of base layers. There are also two front and two side vents.
The front and pocket zips are YKK AquaGuard models. There's also a hidden tail section to guard your backside from road spray and reflective details for visibility for darker rides.
A membrane vest (gillet) is also available for €170 (about £120 / US$185 / AU$240).
Others
The Isadore range also includes standard bib shorts, ThermoRoubaix bib shorts and ThermoRoubaix tights, along with a wider selection of jerseys not seen here. Of course, there's also a full women's selection as well as accessories such as baselayers and arm warmers.
Find out more at the Isadore website, which ships internationally.